Edson Buddle 'honored' to have been teammates with retiring David Beckham

Colorado Rapids forward Edson Buddle was surprised to hear that his former LA Galaxy teammate, David Beckham, had announced on Thursday that he would be retiring following his season with Paris Saint-Germain.

"He had a great, long career, and I'm surprised because I thought he would play longer," Buddle told ColoradoRapids.com on Thursday. "I wish him all the best in whatever he choses to do next."

Buddle joined the LA Galaxy in 2007 in a summer trade from Toronto. A few months later David Beckham joined the Galaxy from Real Madrid. Together, the two would win two MLS Supporters Shields and the 2012 MLS Cup title during their five years as teammates, in which Buddle scored 45 goals - eight off assists from Beckham. (Note: Buddle was playing in Germany when the Galaxy won the Cup in 2011).

"One of the things I learned the most from David was how he came in with a good attitude every day," Buddle said of the former England captain. "He came in to work hard. Once he was on the field, he didn't joke around. He was serious and was all about business on the field. Off the field he's a good leader in the same way. He was just a good professional both on and off the field."

Buddle says the impact Beckham had on the sport in the U.S. during his six years with the Galaxy is unquestionable.

"(Beckham) coming to MLS helped not only the Galaxy, but also MLS," Buddle added. "I'm honored to have been part of it, to have crossed paths. Not everyone gets to do that but I'm glad I did."